Prompt Treatment Is Required For Victims Of Heatstroke

Q-The heat wave is murder. Can you offer any information about causes and treatment for heat-related illnesses? I doubt that even you can make the weather cool off.

A-You`re right, I can`t change the weather, but I will give you the information I think you are looking for.

Usually your body is able to handle the heat. But when the humidity goes beyond 75 percent, sweat evaporation, which is the body`s mechanism for cooling, becomes less effective and heatstroke becomes more likely.

A number of factors can contribute to heatstroke. People who are very old, very young, obese or with congestive heart failure are at greater risk. Certain drugs, including tricyclic antidepressants, amphetamines, cocaine, and LSD, can make you more vulnerable.

Not only can being in a very hot place bring on heatstroke, so can fever, exertion or simply not being used to the heat. Because circulating blood cools you, a poor cardiovascular system will make you prone to heat-related illness. Heatstroke requires prompt treatment to cool the patient and replace fluids. It`s a ``no joke`` medical emergency, so get a call out for an ambulance at once. Spraying cool water on the patient`s skin can increase cooling by evaporation, for a victim of heatstroke does not perspire, and the skin is hot and dry. Using ice packs can help bring down body temperature rapidly. Because heatstroke that results in seizure is extremely dangerous, emergency medical personnel may use anticonvulsant medications to prevent seizure.

Heat cramps can be helped by resting in a cool place, stretching (but not massaging) the cramped muscles and drinking an electrolyte solution, such as Gatorade. Salt tablets may not be helpful: They can upset your stomach and make you even more dehydrated.

If you are prone to heatstroke, try to avoid situations that might cause it. And even if you are healthy, don`t overexert or allow yourself to become dehydrated during extremely hot, humid weather.

Remember the basic rules of prevention: Stay where it`s cool or, at least, get out of the sun; reduce activity to prevent more strain and heat buildup, and make sure you are getting enough fluids to drink. If, despite all your efforts, you begin to feel some of the symptoms I`ve described, don`t delay seeking medical attention.